Pharmaceuticals in the Environment Group Formed
The Pharmaceuticals in the Environment Group (the Group) is a cross-government platform that has been created to acknowledge potential contributors to pharmaceuticals entering the environment, and discuss the unintended consequences.
When pharmaceuticals are disposed of they may enter our ecosystems through waste water.
The Group's first meeting was held in April, where the members agreed to develop a co-ordinated strategy to minimise the impact pharmaceuticals entering the environment has on wildlife and human health. The Group also agreed that they must review and consider the emissions caused by the manufacturing and disposal of these medicines.
The Group's collaborative approach is key to ensuring various stakeholders, such as researchers, regulators and policymakers, can share knowledge, exchange ideas and work towards creating a solution. For example, the outcome of the Group's discussions could influence the development of regulations to reduce the environmental impact of the production and disposal of pharmaceuticals.
The pharmaceutical industry recognises the importance of understanding the issues caused by pharmaceuticals entering the environment, whilst ensuring a balanced approach is achieved, as these pharmaceuticals play an important role in human health. We have seen considerable progress in terms of quality of life due to pharmaceutical advancements, and therefore this must remain a priority for the Group. I think this is a great step in the right direction, as the Group understands the industry's part to play in preserving our environment, whilst continuing to be a leader in research and innovation.